Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1310

Introduced
2/7/22  
Refer
2/8/22  

Caption

Holidays; designating Veteran Suicide Awareness Day. Effective date.

Impact

The implementation of SB1310 would require state and local governments, as well as nonprofit organizations, to recognize and observe September 22 as a day dedicated to raising awareness of veterans' mental health issues including suicide. This codification serves as a crucial step toward acknowledging the sacrifices made by veterans while simultaneously addressing their ongoing struggles with mental health. By providing an official day for recognition, the state may influence community engagement and foster dialogues around support services for veterans and their families.

Summary

Senate Bill 1310 aims to establish September 22 of each year as 'Veteran Suicide Awareness Day' in the state of Oklahoma. The intent of this designation is to raise awareness about the alarming statistic that twenty-two veterans end their lives each day, thus highlighting the critical issue of veteran mental health. This bill, if enacted, will codify this day into state law, thereby providing a specific time for commemoration, awareness campaigns, and educational efforts regarding veteran suicide prevention.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1310 appears predominantly positive. Legislators, particularly those involved in veteran affairs, have shown strong support for the bill as it addresses a pressing issue affecting the military community. The recognition of Veteran Suicide Awareness Day is seen as a necessary measure to improve awareness and mobilize community resources towards the mental well-being of veterans. There is, however, a mild undercurrent of concern regarding the effectiveness of awareness days without corresponding action or increased funding for mental health resources.

Contention

While SB1310 is largely supported, it raises questions about the broader challenges faced by veterans concerning mental health support services. Critics might argue that simply designating a day does not adequately address the root causes of veteran suicide or provide the necessary resources to effectively tackle this issue. Additionally, there may be apprehensions about whether sufficient initiatives will accompany this recognition to ensure that it translates into meaningful support and solutions for veterans struggling with mental health.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK SB234

Holidays; designating Veteran Suicide Awareness Day. Effective date.

OK SB234

Holidays; designating Veteran Suicide Awareness Day. Effective date.

OK HB1570

State holidays; designating the second week of October of each year as Veterans Suicide Awareness Week; emergency.

OK SB1531

State holidays; designating certain holiday. Effective date.

OK H3388

Designating veterans suicide awareness and remembrance day

OK H4862

Designating veterans suicide awareness and remembrance day

OK S2189

Designating veterans suicide awareness and remembrance day

OK SB1405

Schools; naming act related to suicide awareness and training Evan's Law. Effective date. Emergency.

OK HB2795

SUICIDE PREVENTION-VETERANS

OK HB1686

Schools; authorizing State Board of Education to adopt suicide awareness and prevention curriculum; effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.